Air traffic controllers at New York’s JFK Airport averted a potential disaster after an incoming Volaris jet attempted to land on the same runway as a departing Delta plane.
Volaris Flight 880 from Mexico mistakenly lined up to touch down on JFK’s Runway 13 right, where the Delta flight was preparing for takeoff, instead of Runway 13 left.
The Delta pilot informed air traffic control of the incoming plane and the pilot was quickly told to abort its takeoff and taxi off the runway.
According to air traffic audio obtained by NBC New York, the Volaris cockpit was told: "You’re lined up on the wrong runway, Volaris 880 go around."
The jet did as requested and landed at the second attempt without incident.
"Volaris will conduct an investigation to determine the factors that led to this event. The safety of our passengers and crew is our highest priority," the airline said.
